Animals Gap Year Programs After College in Mexico

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Get the chance to work with injured animals from the Amazon rainforest or at a shelter for sea turtles in one of our internships abroad. At the Institute for Global Studies, we help students gain invaluable work experience in their field from an international context. Wildlife shelter work can bring out the best of human nature. Connecting with abandoned animals instills a sense of accomplishment that few tasks provide. Apart from bonding with animals, gain insight into local communities and their interactions with wildlife in their area. Meet with students, residents, and the general public to learn about their customs. Common duties include food preparation, checking in animals, interpretation to the public, medical assistance, and community outreach.

Get lost in the tropical jungle! Volunteer in the Yucatan Peninsula's jungle to track and collect data on jaguars. Participate in wildlife monitoring, install cameras on the jungle floor, and learn how to document data for conservation purposes. The project runs from 1-12 weeks, with a start date throughout the year. This program is based in the second largest jungle in Latin America that provides a habitat for diverse wildlife species. Campeche was originally built as a fort to protect the Caribbean coast from pirate attacks and is now a major attraction for tourists. Project requirements include: - Age range from 18-80; we welcome volunteers aged 16 and 17 with parental consent - Basic level of English - General good health in order to endure working in hot and humid conditions

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish through immersion, and engage in meaningful sustainability projects that leave a lasting impact. Designed for students and young adults seeking growth, clarity, and purpose, Pacific Discovery blends challenge with support. You’ll gain confidence traveling with a small group and experienced instructors who mentor you through guided reflection and leadership activities. Days balance cultural exchange, service, and personal exploration—so you’re not just passing through, but truly connecting. Whether you’re taking a gap year, looking for an alternative to study abroad, or craving a deeper cultural experience, this program helps you grow, give back, and discover your place in the world.